In a powerful live broadcast on NBS Television, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with Extraordinary Media and other stakeholders, officially launched the 6th Edition of the Heroes in Health Awards (HIHA), reaffirming its commitment to honouring Uganda’s frontline health champions.
The launch event brought together health leaders, past awardees, development partners, and members of the public in a moving celebration of those working behind the scenes to keep the nation healthy, often with little recognition and limited resources.
Launched in 2019, HIHA has grown into a national tradition that shifts the spotlight from executive offices to Uganda’s clinics, villages, and communities, where countless unsung heroes dedicate their lives to safeguarding public health.
Under the theme “Strengthening Health Systems, Empowering Communities through Self-Care and Sustainable Solutions”, this year’s awards emphasize resilience, innovation, and the power of community-led health solutions.
“This theme speaks directly to our future,” said Dr. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services, delivering the keynote on behalf of Health Minister Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng. “Self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It is how we bring services closer to people and empower communities.”
Dr. Olaro described HIHA as more than just an awards ceremony, calling it a national platform for encouraging investment in health systems, recognizing the workforce, and promoting sustainable innovations.
In a major endorsement of the initiative’s continental relevance, former President of Kenya, H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, is expected to attend the awards gala as Guest of Honour. His presence will highlight the shared East African vision for innovation-driven, equitable healthcare systems.
The gala will take place at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, an iconic venue befitting the scale and national significance of the awards.
This year, HIHA introduces seven new award categories, aiming to recognize excellence in emerging areas of healthcare: Self-care Champion of the Year, Best Innovation in Self-Care, Private Sector Leadership in Self-Care, Healthcare Provider Excellence in Self-Care, Sustainable Health Financing Champion, Humanitarian Response & Climate Resilience in Health Award and Digital Health Innovation Award.
These additions reflect HIHA’s evolution and its alignment with Uganda’s national health strategies.
Nominations for the 2025 HIHA awards are officially open. Ugandans are invited to nominate individuals and institutions demonstrating compassion, innovation, and impact in the health sector.